# Stoneleigh Classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc (2025)

- **Producer:** Stoneleigh Vineyards
- **Colour:** white
- **Type:** still
- **Grapes:** Sauvignon Blanc
- **Region:** Marlborough, New Zealand
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 13.0%
- **Average price:** €14
- **Vegan:** Yes
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** passion fruit, grapefruit, peach, bell pepper, lemon

## About this wine

Stoneleigh Vineyards is located in the heart of the Wairau Valley in Marlborough, New Zealand. The estate is renowned for its unique terroir, specifically the "sunstones" that cover the vineyard floor. These smooth river stones, deposited thousands of years ago by the ancient Wairau River, absorb the sun's heat during the day and radiate it back to the vines at night, accelerating the ripening process. This natural phenomenon allows Stoneleigh to produce wines with exceptional fruit purity and intensity. Committed to environmental stewardship, the winery is certified sustainable and has dedicated significant land to local biodiversity and native regenerative habitat projects.

## Interesting facts

- The vineyard floor is covered in ancient river stones called 'sunstones' that act as natural heat-retention pads for the vines.
- Certified 100% vegan by the UK Vegetarian Society and sustainably grown under the Sustainable Winegrowing NZ framework.
- The winery has dedicated over 23 hectares of land to local biodiversity and native regenerative habitat projects.

## Food pairing

The high acidity and vibrant tropical and citrus profile of this Sauvignon Blanc make it an exceptional match for fresh, light, and acid-driven dishes. It cuts beautifully through the richness of shellfish like scallops and oysters, while its herbaceous undertones complement fresh herbs, goat cheese, and green salads. The wine's clean, mineral finish acts as a palate cleanser, balancing delicate proteins without overpowering them.

## Wine making process

The winemaking process for this Sauvignon Blanc is designed to capture the vibrant, fresh characteristics of the Marlborough region. Grapes are 100% machine-harvested during the cool night temperatures using advanced selective fruit sorters to minimize phenolic extraction. Upon arrival at the winery, the fruit is gently pressed and clarified. Fermentation takes place slowly at low, strictly controlled temperatures in stainless steel tanks using selected cultured yeasts to preserve the pure varietal aromatics. The wine is kept unoaked, aging entirely in stainless steel on light lees to enhance texture while maintaining its signature crispness and mineral drive.